Nitrogen is needed early in plants but the form matters depending on soil properties and conditions.
Organic Nitrogen Efficiency
- Organic forms of nitrogen offer increased efficiency. When using an organic form the plant will require less nitrogen
- Utilizing strong carbon sources like humic acid is a great way to anchor nitrogen in soils
- In-furrow or dribble applications can greatly enhance use efficiency
- Placing nitrogen in the root zone allows plants to quickly access the nitrogen for growth and development
Bio-Stimulant Power
- Amino acid or protein hydrolysate (Dramm fish or N-Force) nitrogen acts as a powerful bio-stimulant
- Carbon and sugar sources like molasses or humic acid can add bio-stimulant power and nutrient anchoring
Foliar Applications
- Foliar applications can be used to mitigate stresses as well as enhance use efficiency
- Foliar applications can reduce the quantity of nitrogen applied
- Nitrogen is needed late in the reproductive phase (grain fill) to grow tissue within the grain adding protein and necessary carbohydrates. This can be accomplished with foliars, pivot applications or sidedressing
- Foliar applications of nitrate can cause leaf burning. Liquid urea buffered with water and humic can limit leaf burn. Organic nitrogen sources can bolster growth with low risk of burn and available carbon
The Role of Biology
Biology plays an important role in managing nitrogen and nitrogen efficiency:
- Nitrogen cycling and recycling occurs with soil biology
- Nitrogen fixation in the soil or within the plant is a function of biological activity
- Nitrogen anchoring occurs with organic forms of nitrogen as biology feeds on decomposing residue and manures and stores nitrogen within their cells
- Nitrogen fixing bacteria in healthy soils can convert atmospheric nitrogen into plant available nitrogen
These valuable tools should be part of a healthy crop plan to efficiently utilize purchased, recycled and biologically-fixed nitrogen resulting in reduced crop stress and enhanced crop yields.
Contact AgriEnergy Solutions or your favorite representative to learn more.
